Get to Know Mykonos, Greece

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Condé Nast Traveler's March magazine features Mykonos, Greece, on the cover. Here's the behind-the-scenes info of where we shot it and where to visit if you are traveling to the Greek islands.

The Backstory

Much of the hilly island of Mykonos is dotted with churches—more than 400—built by locals to fulfill a vow or honor a saint. The whitewashed seventeenth-century church of Panagia ­Paraportiani, the oldest of all, is on the cover of our March issue.

How to Get There

Many ships call on Mykonos—including the Seabourn Odyssey and the Crystal Serenity, which won top marks in our annual Cruise Poll (February 2012). To spend more time on these picturesque shores, fly here from Athens or take a five-hour boat ride from Piraeus. Consider staying at the Mykonos Grand: The minimalist aesthetic perfectly frames stunning sea views (30-228-902-5555; doubles from $239).

The 360

Just to the left of the frame is the Old Port—a five-minute walk east along the shore—where ferries set sail for the sacred isle of Delos, birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Walk back and just past the church is Little Venice, an uncrowded neighborhood with dozens of tavernas. Kounelas, near the harbor, is a traditional taverna that locals say has the best fish (30-228-902-8220; entrées from $40). Little Venice also has the finest sunset views: Grab a glass of ouzo and watch the orb ­descend behind Paraportiani’s sparkling white belfry into the Aegean.